"I just want to say that this is the best city to be a part of. I mean, you guys have supported me throughout my whole career, and the county, the city and the state of Maryland, I can't thank enough for the support they've given me and my family throughout my career."

"But also, the O's, finally, we're back. We have the ravens tonight and I think, for me, something I've really been able to see is how much support you guys give, we all give to our sports, and, as a city, I think it has been absolutely amazing for me to watch and be a part of, and I just want to thank you all again. So, let's get a good game tonight and have some fun."

Baltimore County Executive Kevin Kamenetz presented to Phelps a T-shirt that had his first name spelled out in tiles akin to Zynga's "Words With Friends," a smartphone game Phelps enjoys.

Baltimore Mayor Stephanie Rawlings-Blake bestowed upon the athletes a key to the city, a rare honor. Gov. Martin O'Malley presented commemorative keepsakes that celebrate the bicentennial of the Star-Spangled Banner.

11 News caught up with Phelps at an Under Armour Olympic celebration, where he talked about his historic accomplishments.

"Everything that went on through my career, especially the past two Olympics, hasn't really hit me fully yet. But I've been able to do everything I ever wanted to do, and that was the most important thing. That was one thing I always wanted to do when I hung my suit up and retired," he said.

Phelps also got the opportunity to be an honorary Ravens captain, running out onto the field with the team at the home opener Monday night, where he got a big bear hug from Ray Lewis.

Phelps ended his Olympic career in London with a record 22 medals overall, including six won in London. That's the most medals won by any athlete at this summer's games.

After the 2008 games, Phelps was welcomed home with a parade in Towson and fireworks at Fort McHenry. The city also staged a parade for Phelps after the 2004 games.

Before the day's events ended Monday, Phelps left some words of wisdom for his fans.

"I started with a dream. Bob and I came up with a plan, and I reached for it. That's been my motto throughout my whole career. Nothing is impossible. If you think you can do it and you want to do it, just go out there and do it," he said.

In photos: Maryland celebrates Olympians, Paralympians

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Marylanders gather at the Inner Harbor for a ceremony celebrating Maryland Olympians and Paralympians.